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Putnam County Department of Health

News & Press Releases

A PHAB Accredited Health Department

The Putnam County Department of Health is made of several divisions all working towards improving and protecting the health of the community. Click on one of the options below to learn more about that division.

Tips for Staying Healthy During a Heat Alert

17 June 2024

Temperatures are expected to be in the 90s this week. Here are a few ways to stay healthy in the heat: 

  • Wear lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothing. 
  • Stay in air conditioning as much as possible. 
  • If air conditioning is not available, a cool shower or bath can help, or visit one of the cooling centers listed below for more extended relief. 
  • Drink plain water or sports drinks, which can help replace salt and minerals lost during heavy sweating. 
  • Avoid sugary or alcoholic drinks which can dehydrate you. 
  • Limit outdoor activities. If you must go out, schedule them for morning or evening when it is cooler. 
  • To reduce risk during outdoor work, take frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments. 
  • Check on vulnerable friends, family members, and neighbors. This includes older adults, the very young, and people with mental illness or chronic diseases. 
  • And remember as always in summertime, never leave children or pets in a parked car, even with the windows rolled down. 

Putnam County libraries can offer a break from the heat. Calling ahead is advised to check open hours. Remember Juneteenth, Wednesday, June 19, is a federal holiday. 

  • Brewster Library—845-279-6421 (Village of Brewster) 
  • Desmond Fish Library—845-424-3020 (Garrison) 
  • Julia L. Butterfield Library—845-265-3040 (Cold Spring)  
  • Kent Library—845-225-8585 
  • Mahopac Library—845-628-2009 
  • Patterson Library—845-878-6121 
  • Putnam Valley Library—845-528-3242 
  • Reed Memorial Library—845-225-2439 (Carmel) 

The National Weather Service’s HeatRisk is a color-coded index meant to provide guidance for those who are at risk for heat related illness. The HeatRisk considers if the heat is unusual for this time of year, how long the temperature is expected to remain elevated, and if the temperature increases the chance of heat-related illness. Stay up-to-date on the HeatRisk at www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov/heatrisk 


Welcome Message

The mission of the Putnam County Department of Health is to improve and protect the health of our community.

We strive to prevent the spread of disease, protect against environmental hazards, promote healthy lifestyles, ensure access to quality health services, and respond to disasters.

We encourage you to explore our website and contact us if you have any questions.

In the event of an emergency, Health Department staff are available 24/7. Please call 845-808-1390 to report a public health emergency, rabies exposure, communicable disease, water outage or sewer overflow.
If you are a member of the media and would like to contact the health department, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Contact the Department of Health


  • Michael J. Nesheiwat, MD

    Commissioner of Health

Putnam County Office Building

40 Gleneida Avenue
Carmel, New York 10512

© 2005 - Putnam County Online

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